ML Interest Tag: craft-room

19 Easy St. Patrick’s Day Crafts That’ll Bring You Luck

by Gabby Cullen

Even if you’ve traded in your pre-kid St. Patrick’s Day activities, with a little luck, there’s still plenty of fun to be had. Whether you’ve got preschoolers (hello, St. Patrick’s Day coloring pages) or older kids (Shamrock slime, anyone?), we’ve gathered up a bunch of festive St. Patrick’s Day crafts for kids that will get your crew excited about the holiday. Be sure to top off the holiday fun with a batch of Irish Soda Bread scones! 

Fruit Loop and Pipe Cleaner Craft

Perfect for working on fine motor skills, this St. Patrick’s Day craft is ideal for toddlers and preschool kids. The supplies are safe (and tasty), and you can do anything from a rainbow to a shamrock.

Interactive St. Patrick’s Day Craft

A lesson in gratitude as well as a fun St. Patrick’s Day craft for preschool and kindergarten kids, you can buy the template from Teachers Pay Teachers by clicking here.

Shamrock Puppets

These shamrock puppets are cute St. Patrick's Day crafts
Typically Simple

Your kids will have a sham-rocking time making up stories about these happy shamrocks. Find out how to make a few of these cheerful characters over at Typically Simple. 

Shamrock Slime

As the Bunny Hops

It's icky, it's gooey, but it's also so pretty! This Shamrock Slime from As The Bunny Hops is bound to not only entice your neighborhood leprechaun but also provide hours of fun, too. 

Rainbow Shaker Wand

Picture of a rainbow shaker wand, one of the best St patricks day crafts
Happy Mothering

St. Patrick's Day is all about enjoying rainbows and leprechauns! Help the kids craft this whimsical Rainbow Wand Shaker from Happy Mothering. Made with household supplies you probably already have lying around, this brightly colored (and noisy) project will keep your kids busy all afternoon.

Rainbow Bracelet

Simple Everyday Mom

Whether your kiddo is looking to make a gift for a friend, or just expand their jewelry collection, this rainbow bracelet from Simple Everyday Mom is perfect. Brightly colored rainbow beads are strung up on stretchable cord, then attached to a cute, free printable!

Mosaic Paper Shamrocks

Happiness is Homemade

Let your kids get their craft on with these fun mosaic paper shamrocks from Happiness is Homemade. Simple paper shamrocks are covered in multi-colored squares for a handmade and unique craft that's perfect for St. Patty's.

Rainbow Preschool Craft

The Nerd's Wife

Perfect for little learners, this preschool St. Patrick's Day rainbow craft from The Nerd's Wife is a great way to spend the afternoon. With just three supplies, this colorful DIY project is simple enough to avoid a trip to the craft store, but it still packs tons of fun.

Pots o' Gold and Rainbows

Willowday

Hide pots of gold around the house with this cute craft from Willowday. All you need to pull it off is a paper cup and some colorful ribbons. Click here to get the scoop.

Related: 8 St. Patrick’s Day Science Experiments for Kids

Handprint Rainbow Painting

Kids Craft Room

Let your little leprechauns get messy with this cute creation from Kids Craft Room. They’ll have fun experimenting with paint colors and making different shapes. 

Paper Plate Leprechaun Mask

Kids Craft Room

If you’ve got paper plates and paint on hand, you’re all set to make a leprechaun mask like this one from Kids Craft Room. Complete with a leprechaun’s signature hat and ginger beard, kids will have a blast wearing their creations around the house. 

Marzipan Rainbows

This marzipan rainbow is a fun St Patrick's Day craft
Craft Knife

Chasing a rainbow is not as tricky as it seems, thanks to Craft Knife’s clever use of marzipan in place of clay to make lucky rainbows. Best part? They can eat their creations without getting sick. 

DIY Fairy Garden

Sara Olsher

The Irish have a long-standing relationship with The Little People of lore, and the leprechaun is one of the most famous this time of year. Craft a fairy garden for your little visitors using houseplants, doll furniture, and more. Click here to learn how to DIY it for the wee folk.

Marshmallow Rainbow

marshmallow rainbow is a fun St. Patrick's Day craft
No Time for Flashcards

Kids can make a sweet rainbow out of colorful mini marshmallows—and maybe snack on a few while they're at it. Head over to No Time for Flashcards to get the instructions for this easy St. Patrick's Day craft.

Shamrock Suncatchers

Hands On As We Grow

Hands On As We Grow came up with this light-catching craft that's perfect for tiny tots. Kids can go wild arranging tissue paper and glitter, then just keep it in place with contact paper.

Related: This Is How to Sham-Rock a St. Patrick’s Day Party

Toilet Paper Roll Leprechauns

Moments of Mommyhood

How adorable is this little guy from Moments of Mommyhood? Put your old toilet paper rolls to good use by crafting wee leprechauns to display around the house. 

Rainbow Suncatcher

A rainbow suncatcher is a fun St. Patrick's Day craft
Melissa Lennig via Fireflies and Mudpies

Brighten up your wintery scene with these beautiful rainbow sun catchers that are the perfect touch for your St. Patrick's Day celebrations. Melissa Lennig of Fireflies and Mudpies breaks it all down for you.

Rainbow Coloring Page

Sarah McClelland via Little Bins for Little Hands

This simple St. Patrick's Day rainbow coloring page opens up a world of possibilities for your little artist! Sarah McClelland from Little Bins for Little Hands has it for you, along with a great recipe for puffy paint!

Leprechaun Hat

Fireflies and Mudpies

Have your kiddo try out this adorable Leprechaun hat from Fireflies and Mudpies that can serve as a decoration or a gift. 

—with additional reporting by Amber Guetebier, Abigail Matsumoto, and Taylor Clifton

 

 

 

 

 

 

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7 Mummy Crafts You Can Actually Wrap Your Head Around

by Tinybeans Team

Get out that gauze and get ready to recreate a few of these mummy craft projects that are just the right amount of creepy.

Pumpkin carving might not be so easy (unless you have these pro templates) but these mummy crafts are actually very simple to pull off. Spend an afternoon with the kids and make a festive decoration that will last for Halloweens to come. If you’re looking for other Halloween crafts for kids, we’ve got those too!

Moving Eyes Mummy Craft

How cute is this idea? Even the big kids might get in on the fun with this Halloween craft. Get the details over at Kids Craft Room.

Glowing Nose Mummy Craft

This is a lot easier than it looks, and the kids will love to watch these mummies light up after dark! Get the tutorial over at Non-Toy Gift Ideas.

Toilet Paper Roll Mummy

Even if you don’t “do” crafts, you can still do this. Save a few rolls, buy string and googly eyes, and get to work. You can paint them, or not, it’s up to you and your kids.

Masking Tape Mummy

Masking Tape Mummy Craft
Somewhat Simple via Eighteen25

We love this sweet and simple masking tape and construction paper mummy craft by Eighteen25 that's perfect for preschoolers who are still honing their fine motor skills. And if you want to extend the playtime after the mummy's made, just add a popsicle stick to the back, and voila! You've got yourself a puppet!

Bendable Mummy Figures

a bendable mummy craft
Family Chic from Camilla Fabbri

Your kids will love bending these DIY mummy figures to fit their needs. Who knows? You may just find a chain of them dangling from the chandelier, your rearview mirror, or even the showerhead. Check out Family Chic for inspiration and how-to.

Wood Block Mummies

Mummy Craft
Craftaholics Anonymous

Yes, there is a possible trip to the hardware store for this one, but your reward will be an adorable DIY decoration that you'll pull out every Halloween for years to come. We love this tutorial by Craftaholics Anonymous. Can't stomach the thought of loading up a carload of kids and navigating the lumber yard? Try substituting cereal boxes for a temporary decoration, instead.

Pumpkin Mummies

Hands on As We Grow

Hands On As We Grow has an idea for the friendliest little mummy pumpkin you'll ever meet, and you can get the step-by-step here. Googly eyes and no-mess cuteness? Yes, please!

 

 

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Best Indoor Playspaces for Chicago Kids

by Debra Flanagan

An indoor playground is a perfect option when the weather doesn’t want to cooperate

Whether it’s snowing, raining, or even sunny outside, sometimes it’s just easier to play inside. Skip the layers, skip the snowsuits, skip the umbrellas, and even skip the sunscreen. It really is okay to enjoy a beautiful Chicago day indoors particularly if you need to get stuff done.

So where are you going to play today? When your living room loses its luster (your kiddos can only bounce off the walls for so long), check out a neighborhood play space. With indoor jungle gyms, pretend play areas, and tons of toys, the options in Chicago and the ‘burbs have something for every kind of kid. Plus, many have cafes, wifi, and even co-working space for parents.

Bellaboo Play and Discovery Center

Why venture to Indiana for a play space? Because this one, which feels like a hybrid of a children’s museum and play space, is truly out of this world. Every aspect of Bellaboo is open-ended, play-based, and unstructured, which means your kids really engage their imaginations. With a circular layout, each themed area is actually an entire room. Have a blast in the blocks room, water room, arts and crafts room, train room, and more. A full menu in the cafe means you can make a day of it. Weather permitting, they offer an outdoor area as well.

Lake Station, IN
Online: mybellaboos.com

Bubbles Academy

Bubbles Academy now offers several ways to enjoy its services. Bubbles North Branch is located across the street from Bubbles Academy and is dedicated to all caregiver and child drop-off classes and garage and tent classes. Bubbles Academy is home to the arts-integrated preschool for ages 2.5-5. This location includes an outdoor nature playground using materials that inspire play and connection with the natural world.

Their location at 900 N. Michigan shops hosts music, movement and art classes, preschool prep, weekly drop-in art experiences, and curated retail from local mom-owned businesses.

Most recently, they opened a location in Highland Park.

If you’d prefer to take in-home classes, their website has over 30 pre-recorded virtual classes.

Bucktown, Mag Mile, and Highland Park locations
Online: bubblesacademy.com

Chicago Children’s Museum

In addition to the Dinosaur Exhibition, the Tinkering Lab, Treehouse Trails, Art Studio, and so many other great exhibits, play, and climbing areas, the Chicago Children’s Museum just unveiled its newest attraction, Moen Presents Water City. The main components of Water City include the City Center, where kids can experiment with water within a city model of Chicago, Musical Water, with water-activated musical buildings, the Early Learning Area which includes lower tables, and a working replica of Buckingham Fountain, Foggy Lake in which waves can be created, River and Dam for creating courses for a vessel to travel and control the water flow, a Water City Signage area, and Bridges, Ledges, and Loose Parts for Narrative Play.

Navy Pier
Online: chicagochildrensmuseum.org

Exploritorium

This hidden gem delights kids with hands-on exhibits about light, water, wind, and more. Come wearing your thinking cap—or just romp around. Attractions include a giant “Lite Brite” peg board, musical instruments, and climbing tubes and tunnels that stretch two-and-a-half stories.

Skokie
Online: skokieparks.org

Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo recently replaced the kids’ climbing area, located in the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo, with the Houston Family Play Treehouse. The new, year-round, nature-based play space is wheelchair accessible, and special attention was given to making the play space inclusive for kids of all sizes, sight, and movement abilities. It is a much-welcomed update. Best of all, it remains free!

Lincoln Park
Online: lpzoo.org

Little Beans Cafe

Little Beans Cafe was one of the first and remains one of the most popular play spaces. They offer both imaginative and active play, preschool, summer camps, special holiday events, gymnastics, and other classes and they’re a great place to host a birthday party. They cater to both kids 0-6 years old, and they have a ninja gym area for “Big Beans” (4-12 years old.) The cafe serves food and drinks and they worked on their patio in 2021 to make it extra inviting for parents to relax.

Evanston
Online: littlebeanscafe.com

Present Place Chicago

Present Place Chicago offers several drop-in classes (reservations strongly recommended), including Skip & Scoot Little Fitness Adventures, Music Class with Ms. Sunshine, and the little book club. Open, caregiver-supervised play for ages 0-4 is offered during the week. With an incredible play set and selection of imaginative toys, adults can plan to socialize or even get some remote work done while the children are occupied in a safe space. Coffee and wifi are free!

River North
Online: presentplacechicago.com

Purple Monkey Playroom

Muraled walls fill this hub for parents with character and cheer. Best suited to kids ages 0-4, it’s intimately sized to allow kids free range to gain independence while you keep tabs. The focus is imaginative play with a hut-style house and a nice stock of dress-up clothes. Gross motor skills can be developed on the balance beam or small toddler slide. They have special Bubbles & Balloons playtimes too. Reservations required.

Bucktown
Online: purplemonkeyplayroom.com

 

Work and Play

If you are looking for an indoor play space where you can also get some remote work done on a daily basis, check out these co-working spaces that may provide the key to work-life balance.

itsy bitsy Play & Cafe

itsy bitsy is coming soon to Lincoln Square and is currently available for tours.  In addition to an incredibly creative play space for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, itsy bitsy will house a cafe and a comfortable, functional, co-working space. They will even offer private office space for those moments when you need some extra privacy. As you work, top-notch, early childhood education providers, deemed “Playmakers” will care for your children.

Lincoln Square
Online: itsybitsyplay.com

Le Village

Le Village is more than a co-working space. It is a community. A “village” if you will. The modern, open floor plan of the workspace supports camaraderie among the working parents, as does the cafe. They host events and support groups to further grow the family-like atmosphere. Le Village offers the flexibility to be with your children when you want to, and also the privacy and security of knowing your children are well cared for when you cannot be with them. Kids from 3 months to 4 years old are split into classes, with a custom curriculum, led by certified teachers.

Irving Park
Online: levillagecowork.com

 

Additional reporting by Maria Chambers

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The Ultimate Guide to Indoor Fun in DC

by Angelica Kajiwara

When the weather isn’t cooperating, head one of these fun-filled indoor playspaces for an afternoon of adventure. From an epic indoor playspace where you can climb, splash and explore to an innovative museum that teaches you how to be a spy, these indoor activities will entertain, engage and educate your kiddos in a cozy, climate-controlled environment. Read on for the details on the best indoor activities  near Washington, DC.

Play Work Build at The National Building Museum

Oversized blue building blocks at the National Building Museum
National Building Museum

This hands-on exhibit represents the correlation between play (and experimentation) with creative ideas and design. Children (and adults) can create massive structures using oversized blue blocks to plan, design and execute builds that are structurally sound. If half the fun is tearing down what you've built, be sure to check out the virtual build section where you can fill a wall with digital blocks and then knock them down. Kaboom!

Editor's Note: Play Work Build is currently operating with a limited number of guests: total occupancy is allowed is 20. Timed entry passes are included with admission to the museum. Guests 2 & up are required to wear a mask indoors, regardless of their vaccination status.

401 F Street NW
Gallery Place/Chinatown
Online: nbm.org/play-work-build/

International Spy Museum

International Spy Museum

Do you have a future Secret Agent in your home? Then you need to head to this interactive mix of historical and virtual fun full of spycraft. Get ready for challenge after challenge where young and old alike will learn about spy materials and intelligence gathering. Pre-readers might need a little help navigating some of these hands-on exhibits. Plan to spend a few hours in this huge museum and don't rush through the gift shop ; you'll be sure to find super unique items ready for spy practice at home.

Insider Tip: Check out the educational resources, and your kids can design their own spy gadget and mix up some invisible ink. 

700 L'Enfant Plaza SW
Washington, DC 
Online: spymuseum.org

Super, Awesome & Amazing

Super, Awesome & Amazing

The name says it all, and that's what you can expect inside 30,000 square feet of fun. First, pack all the water gear because the indoor water park offers year-round summer vacation vibes. Then, get ready to climb to new heights in the climbing and obstacles area. Your kids' confidence will grow, and their strategic thinking skills will skyrocket as they solve each climbing challenge. Step into another world with the Virtual Reality gaming bays. Slip into one of the Head-Mounted Displays to enter an intergalactic, ancient, or futuristic realm. There's a lot to see and do. If you need help, just ask one of the super friendly staff members, and they'll be more than happy to take care of your crew.

Insider Tip: Everyone must wear closed-toed shoes when in the Active Entertainment Center, and no outside food or drink is allowed. 

6805 Industrial Rd
Springfield, VA
Online: superawesomeandamazing.com

Get Air Trampoline Park

Get Air Trampoline Park

Get ready to bounce off the walls in this trampoline-filled play space. And you don't have to worry about your little ones getting run over because there's an area just for them. So, strike up a family-friendly game of trampoline dodgeball or run and jump headfirst into a giant foam pit. If you're all fans of ninja courses, you'll love the course at this place. The exciting obstacles build kids' agility, strength and balance. And, they can race against time and see how fast they can complete the course.

Insider Tip: The park offers a dedicated time just for jumpers with special needs on the first Saturday of every month from 8-10 a.m. 

The Trade Center Shopping Village
340 S Pickett St, Alexandria, VA
Online: getairsports.com

DC Kids Makerspace

iStock

In this innovative and creative class-based space, your kids will love the STEAM fun and learning waiting for them. Build a LAVA lamp, mix up some slime or create a custom face mask. Any project is full of endless possibilities. Many classes start with mindful practice and reflection, and the staff leaves tons of space for open creativity. 

205 Upshur St NW
Washington, DC
Online: dckidsmakerspace.com

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

Udvar-Hazy Center

If rockets and airplanes are your kids' things, then the Air and Space Museum in Dulles, VA, is the next stop on your winter bucket list. First, visit the vast plane hangar where the Space Shuttle Discovery and a Concorde are on display. Then, ride in a flight simulator and sit inside the cockpit of a vintage aircraft. Head upstairs to the top level, and your crew can learn about air traffic control and watch planes fly in and out of the local airport. 

Insider Tip: You don't need to worry about leaving to grab lunch, there's a McDonald's on-site. 

14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway
Chantilly, Virginia
Online: airandspace.si.edu

Wilson Aquatic Center

iStock

It hardly matters the season; kids just want to swim. Lucky for us, Woodrow Wilson Aquatic Center in Tenleytown offers an Olympic size indoor lap pool and kiddie pool that is open year round, seven days a week. Kids love the two basketball hoops and large buckets that dump water into the baby pool. The Aquatic Center is free to D.C. residents, but charges non-residents $7 for adults and $4 for kids. The Aquatic Center does not accept cash; payment must be made by credit card. For more fun in the water, check out this guide on indoor water parks in DC.

4551 Fort Drive NW
Tenleytown
202-730-0583
Online: dpr.dc.gov

Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian

National Museum of the American Indian

The nation’s capitol has countless museums, but a favorite for the kiddos is the Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian. Head straight to the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on the third level for an interactive space where kids can weave a giant basket, explore snowshoes, sit inside a full-sized tipi, play in an Amazonian stilt house and learn about pueblo adobe houses. Upon entering, kids pick up a “passport book,” and get stamps from different tribal nations at each station. There’s a reading room and a craft room, with super cool rotating art projects (think: a Lakota Star Quilt). When the gang gets hungry, head down to the Mitsitum Café, which the New York Times has called “the best food on the mall.” There, you’ll find fry bread, wild duck, salmon, and buffalo burgers.

Editor's note: The Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian and Mitsitum Café are open, but imagiNATIONS is currently closed. 

Fourth Street and Independence Ave. SW
National Mall
202-633-6644
Online: americanindian.si.edu

National Museum of America History

Toddlin' Across America

A museum that says it is OK to touch? Yes, please! With interactive exhibitions like America on the Move and hands-on carts full of historical activities, your visit may feel more like a day at an educational playground. When the adults and big kids are ready to explore everything the museum offers, younger kiddos will love the on-site interactive kids' areas. You can explore this museum from the comfort of your home, too. Listen to the museum's Prototype Online: Inventive Voices podcast that features interviews and lectures of renowned inventors and innovators. This series also has a podcast activity guide.

Wegman's Wonderplace – Take your tiny ones (6 & under) to the magical play area just inside the entrance. The 1700-square-foot interactive wonderland gets curiosity flowing. With a gated entrance and attentive staff, you can freely allow your kiddos to explore the dream kitchen, blocks of all shapes and sizes, walls full of gadgets and gizmos and an indoor farm complete with an adorable chicken coop. Editor's note: Wonderplace is currently closed due to COVID. 

Spark!Lab – Bring out that little inventor in this innovative space built for tinkering. The cool factor is high when everything you see invites your kids to create, collaborate, explore, test, experiment and invent. Perfect for ages 6 – 12.

1300 Constitution Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20560
Online: americanhistory.si.edu

U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing

Sadly, you won't get to take home a sample of the newly printed money, but you will get to learn all about how it happens. And, you can peep what ten million dollars looks like in real life. Before you go, it helps to discuss the definition of the word currency. You'll hear that word more than money throughout the day. Free tour tickets are required from March through November, and the 40-minute tour runs from 9 a.m – 2 p.m. You'll start by watching a short film about U.S. currency, then take a tour featuring actual money printing while you're there.

Insider Tip: If you visit during peak season (March 23 - September 4), they distribute tour tickets in the morning, and they go fast

Editor's Note: Tours are currently suspended due to COVID. 

14th and C Streets, SW
Washington, DC
Online: moneyfactory.gov

—Angelica Kajwara and Ayren Jackson-Cannady

RELATED STORIES:
The Country’s 20 Best Science Museums for Kids
8 Indoor Water Parks for Family Fun Near DC
The Best Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces Near DC 

 

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Boston’s Best Indoor Playgrounds for Every Age

by Allison Sutcliffe

Take refuge during Boston’s coldest months when you duck in to play at one of our favorite indoor spots

If there’s one thing Boston families can count on in winter, it’s super chilly days. And while we’re definitely fans of sledding and ice skating during Boston’s winter, we also know sometimes it’s nice to find a warm, cozy playspace indoors. So when your kids are bouncing off the walls, count on Boston’s best indoor playgrounds to come to the rescue. They’ve got everything kids need to stay entertained (and warm) on cold winter days.

Best Boston Indoor Playgrounds for Babies & Toddlers

1. The Children’s Piazza

Designed for the youngest players, ages 5 and under, this peaceful indoor playground is hard to beat on a cold day. Kids can frolic on the wooden climber, make tracks on the train table, and even swing on the swing set. Imaginative play takes center stage here with a stage for puppet shows, dress-up clothes, and a craft room. But the best part has to be the café where parents can grab a cup of hot coffee and something to eat while the kids play.

83 Pine St., Unit F
Peabody, MA
Online: thechildrenspiazza.com

2. Play Union

Let your kiddo’s imagination come alive at this playroom that caters to littles. Watch your creative cutie jump from one station to the next, building with Magnatiles, running a pretend restaurant, shopping at the “market”, or playing with trucks and trains. There’s even a craft station for budding artists. They’ll be ready for naptime after a few hours here.

378 Somerville Ave.
Somerville, MA
Online: playunionsomerville.com

3. VinKari Safari

We all know toddlers need room to roam, and that’s one of the best things about the VinKari Safari indoor playground. Kids can move from one colorfully decorated room to the next as they climb through tunnels, make their way down slides, bounce in the inflatables, and take off on a ride-along.

10 Micro Dr.
Woburn, MA
Online: vinkarisafari.com

4. Off the Wall Kidz

The multi-level climbing structure that’s a maze of bridges and tunnels, and has an interactive slide, is just part of the draw for toddlers here. They can also play in pretend city, a little town where they’ll find everything they need to dress up and imagine. The separate toddler play area is tops. Its soft toys, merry-go-round, and animal swings make it a great place for just-walkers to play. And the ball pit is always a hit, no matter what age.

160 N. Main St. D
Carver, MA
Online: offthewallkidz.com

Indoor Spots Preschoolers & Kindergartners Will Love

5. Boston Playground

This Chelsea play spot is a favorite for a reason. It’s got everything kids need to stay active when the weather isn’t cooperating, including a sporty bouncy house, climbing wall, and ninja course where kids can practice their stealth skills. If they’ve still got energy left to burn, a game of soccer pool followed by fort building should do the trick. Bring on naptime!

121 Webster Ave., #3
Chelsea, MA
Online: bostonplayground.com

6. Jam Time

Jam Time is an award-winning indoor playground that feels like your living room—only bigger. And it’s got the space you wish you had to house gorgeous wooden play structures and a bouncy house, alongside everyday playthings like train tables, kitchen sets, and climbing tubes. Remember to bring your socks to play here, and a snack (as long as it’s nut-free) to keep the kids fueled for playtime.

Locations in Maynard, Natick & Norwood.

Online: jamtime.com

7. KidSports

If you like a side of gaming with your indoor playspace, look no further than KidSports. It has got the requisite climbing walls, bouncy houses, and oversized slides. But kids will love adding on a game of laser tag, bowling, or plaster painting to switch up winter playtime. Just be warned, they’ve got flashy arcade games here that kids find hard to resist.

11 Evans Dr.
Stoughton, MA
Online: kidsportsfun.com

Let Grade School Kids Run Free at These Play Places

8. Sky Zone Trampoline Park

The sky’s the limit on a cold winter day when you bring the kids to this trampoline park. Big kids will love the ninja warrior course, sky joust, and freestyle jump zones, plus the dodgeball and basketball courts where they can game. Our favorite part is the special jump times they offer each week, like Little Leapers, Frozen Leapers, and a Friday night Glow session for kids ages 5 and up. You’ll find fun for the whole fam here.

69 Norman St.
Everett, MA
Online: skyzone.com/Everett

9. BeanStalk Adventure Ropes Course

Adventure awaits at this two-story ropes course inside Jordan Furniture. As they make their way along the course (harnessed and tied off, of course), kids will encounter 30 different elements like zig-zag beams, rope ladders, spaghetti hand lines, and the exciting Sky Rail zip line. Whether you all climb together or you cheer your kids on from below, this is a can’t-miss adventure you’ve got to try.

Jordan’s Furniture
50 Walkers Brook Dr.
Reading, MA
Online: it.jordans.com

10. Launch Trampoline Park

If your kids are bouncing off the walls, why not lean in? Big kids will love the chance to burn energy as they bounce from one trampoline to the next, play dodgeball and basketball, attempt the ninja course, and maybe even play a round of laser tag or two. The on-site eats and arcade let families hole up here for as little or as long as they want on a blustery winter day.

570 Providence Hwy.
Norwood, MA
Online: launchtrampolinepark.com

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10 Creative Games You Can Create with LEGO Bricks

by Susie Foresman

LEGO bricks might just be the best toy out there since they offer so many different playtime possibilities. With so many options, sometimes little ones need a spark of inspiration to think of something to build with them. That’s why we’ve rounded up a bunch of cool LEGO games to add to your arsenal. They’ll get your kids building, thinking and giggling in no time. Read on to get your build on.

Tallest Tower Challenge

Little Bins for Little Hands

This game from Little Bins for Little Hands comes with a free printable with the challenges built right in! We love that it's designed like a game board but uses LEGO bricks you already have as the game pieces. Download the printable by clicking here. 

LEGO Duplo Ring Toss

Stir the Wonder

Turn your favorite carnival game into a LEGO challenge dreamed up by Samantha of Stir the Wonder. It’s a great way to build hand-eye coordination and foster a bit of friendly competition. Get all the details by clicking here, and check out Samantha’s book The Unofficial Guide to Learning with LEGO for more ideas.

Make Your Own Board Game

What Do We Do All Day?

Get your kids’ imagination going with this bright idea from What Do We Do All Day? They’re encouraged to design the board and come up with rules themselves. To get all the details, click here.

Disaster Island Challenge

The Lego Librarian

We’re obsessed with this creative challenge by The Lego Librarian—kids build a deserted island for 20 minutes, then they get to pick a Disaster Card and build a solution to the problem they’re presented with. Click here to get the details (and printable cards), along with lots more fun LEGO challenges.

Roll, Build and Create

No Time for Flashcards

Sometimes kids get stuck and can’t figure out what to build, and that’s where this game from No Time for Flashcards comes in. A roll of the dice determines what piece to pick up next, and your kiddo’s imagination can take it from there. Get the details by clicking here.

LEGO Party Games

Kelly Sikkema via Unsplash

Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls has a great rundown of LEGO party games, but they’re just as fun in smaller settings, too. Kids are challenged to build structures with just one hand, build a tower with a blindfold on, and more. Click here to see all the games.

Tongue Tower

Mark Seletcky via Unsplash

This hilarious game from Play. Party. Plan. will get your whole crew giggling. It involves building a LEGO tower on a tongue depressor—while holding it in your mouth. Get the details, plus more game ideas by clicking here.

Tell a Story

Kelly Sikkema via Unsplash

Take a cue from LEGO themselves and challenge your kids to tell a story through their creations. It’ll help them work on their short-term memory as they retell a story back to you. Click here to get the details, along with more easy memory games.

LEGO Card Game

One Mama's Daily Drama

Try out a printable card game from One Mama’s Daily Drama. The cards have different tasks for kids to complete, like building their name or a spaceship to go to Mars. To get the details, click here.

Chopstick Challenge

Rick Mason via Unsplash

Get inspired by Kids Craft Room to play a Minute to Win It–style game using LEGO. Craft your own chopsticks, then use them to move the bricks around (it’s trickier than it looks!). Click here to discover more, quick but super fun, games.

 

 

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16 Mother’s Day Paper Crafts Kids Can Easily Make

by Susie Foresman

Mother’s Day will be here before you know it, so it’s the perfect time to help your kiddos make a craft to show Mom how much they love her. We’ve rounded up a list of easy paper crafts that kids can make themselves, from tissue paper flowers to patterned notebooks. Read on for some serious crafting inspiration.

1. A Tasteful Topiary

Make and Takes

Grab some dried flowers and put together this sweet card from Make and Takes. Finish it off with white glue and a little drawing. To get all the details on this DIY, click here.

2. Patterned Notebook

Sisoo

How cool is this personalized notebook from Sisoo?! Grab a simple notebook and origami paper, and you’ll have the perfect gift ready in no time. Best of all, it’s something Mom will happily use. To get the details on how it’s done, click here.

3. Mother’s Day Questionnaire

Lil’ Luna

If you don’t have time to make an elaborate craft, this cute questionnaire from Lil’ Luna will fit the bill. Your little one can fill out facts about Mom, and then they can draw and color a one-of-a-kind picture of her. To get the printable, click here.

4. Mother’s Day Book

Hello, Wonderful

This kid-made book from Hello, Wonderful is guaranteed to melt Mom’s heart. The printable template includes prompts for them to write their favorite things about their mom. Get all the details by clicking here.

5. Easy Silhouette

Homemade Ginger

Professional silhouettes can be expensive, but you can actually DIY one that looks just as good, thanks to Homemade Ginger. You’ll be surprised by how easy it is—click here to get the step-by-step instructions.

6. Flower Art

Hello, Wonderful

We’re obsessed with this colorful and creative idea from Hello, Wonderful. Just head outside and collect spring flowers and foliage, then use them to decorate a special portrait of Mom. To get the details, click here.

7. Paper Flower Bowl

B-Inspired Mama

We love this craft idea from B-Inspired Mama—it’s a gift that can be put to good use as a candy bowl or a trinket holder. Find out how it’s made and print out the colorful flowers by clicking here.

8. Printable Card

The Bird Feed NYC

If you’re not the crafty type, that doesn’t mean you can’t still surprise Mom. Just print out The Bird Feed NYC’s cute card template, then let the tots fill it in with all the things they love about their mom. Grab the printable by clicking here.

9. Sequin Paper Plate Heart Suncatchers

Kids Craft Room

Break out the paper plates to make these cute suncatchers from Kids Craft Room. With a bit of paint and some sparkles, your little artists will make a keepsake that will melt Mom’s heart. Click here to get the instructions.

10. Butterfly Handprint Cards

The Best Ideas for Kids

Take inspiration from The Best Ideas for Kids to transform your kiddo’s handprint into a pretty butterfly card. They’re super easy to make with construction paper and a little glue. To get the instructions (plus a cute poem to include with the card!), click here.

11. Best Mom Ever Medals

Chica Circle

Remind Mom she’s the best with these adorable medals from Chica Circle. You’ll have these done in no time thanks to the handy printable. Click here to get the instructions and the templates (there’s a template for the Best Grandma Ever too).

12. Teacup Cards

In the Playroom

If Mom is a tea drinker, she’ll love getting a fun card inspired by In the Playroom. Made with egg cartons, pipe cleaners and her favorite tea bag, this card is sure to be a hit. Click here to get all the details.

13. Crepe Paper Flowers

The Art of Simple

Break out the crepe papers to make a bouquet of colorful flowers like this one from The Art of Simple. You can use pipe cleaners instead of floral wire to make it easy for the kids to take over. Click here to see the step-by-step instructions.

14. Tulip Painting

Fun Littles

Try out Fun Littles’ cool and colorful take on painting for Mom. Three-pronged forks become painting utensils, so you’ll have a pretty tulip garden in no time. Get the details by clicking here.

15. Woven Hearts

Maya*Made

Little ones will love making woven paper hearts like this one from Maya*Made. You can experiment with different types of material, from vintage maps to newspapers to burlap. To get all the details, click here.

16. Tissue Paper Flower Card

Buggy and Buddy

For a last-minute gift, we love this easy idea from Buggy and Buddy. Kids can decorate a card with tissue paper flowers, then fill in the inside with drawings or notes for Mom. Click here to get the instructions and free printable.

—Susie Foresman

Feature photo: Pexels

 

RELATED STORIES:

20 Perfect Paper Crafts for Kids

Easter Paper Crafts for Kids

Origami Paper Crafts for Kids 

Carefree Crafting: Simple, Fun & Crazy Hat Ideas

10 Animal Masks You Can Easily Make in One Afternoon

 

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How to Organize Your Life While Sheltering at Home

By Marty Basher

Wondering how you’ll find a sense of routine and organization in your household during this challenging time? Here are a few ways to gain a bit of sanity and get your family adjusted to the new norm.

Create a Family Schedule. Create a realistic schedule for the entire family with room to ad lib a bit so don’t forget to allow for some flexibility and room to relax. While this is an extremely trying situation for many people, you can also look at it as a gift with less running and activities and additional family time that most households don’t typically get. When building your schedule make sure to include meal times, learning time, arts and crafts, outdoor fresh air and exercise, clean up/chores and quiet time so you can focus on work and give everyone a break-time from each other (this will be key as the weeks go on). Since everyone is stuck at home, now is the time to recruit your kids to take on a bigger piece of the pie when it comes to helping out with the family. Split up chores amongst the kids, call on them to help each other out (bigger kids can help with the younger kids).

Set Important Boundaries. While this is a great time for families to relax a bit, some boundaries are crucial to keep everyone on track and productive. While extra TV and technology time is totally acceptable at such a challenging time, it’s still ideal to have healthy limits. This will make it easier when schedules go back to normal and to help keep your kids happy and motivated. It’s well-documented that too much TV and technology affects a child’s mood and sleep. It’s also essential to talk openly to your kids about what you need to accomplish each day working from home and what’s expected of them. Make sure they understand that your job requires you to get a certain amount of work done each day and you need their help. Make a sign for your office door that lets them know when you can talk to them (such as “do not disturb”) or create a hand signal (thumbs up—ok to talk or thumbs down—you’ll have to wait a minute).

Organize Work Stations for Each Family Member. Just like an office or classroom, each person should get their own designated work area. It’s the most practical and productive way to get things done. Seek out a quiet place where you think you can get work done and take phone calls if necessary. It doesn’t have to be an entire spare room that’s all decked out, it can be as simple as a desk set up in your bedroom or even closet, depending on your space. Attempting to work from home with kids has its challenges so be prepared for interruptions and plenty of breaks. As for your kids, doing schoolwork from the kitchen table works for some kids but not all of them. It might be beneficial to give each child their own space to do some learning. Some kids prefer their bedrooms, others are fine curled up on the couch, while others may need a desk/table to fully function. Find a spot each child feels good about getting some work done and set each child up with the tools they need such as a tablet or laptop, writing utensils, paper, and art supplies. If your school didn’t assign work, a simple Google search will help you land on educational websites and apps to get you going.

Repurpose Rooms. Repurposing existing space in your home is the easiest, less expensive way to fill needs for a home office, an exercise room, or an additional bedroom. An unfinished basement, for example, offers the largest amount of usable space for repurposing. An unused closet can also become an office or homework space with wall-mounted shelves for supplies and a desk for a computer. Now is the perfect time to carve out some unused space in your home for a kids’ craft room. Think how nice it would be to have an actual room designated for finger painting, playing with playdoh and making pasta necklaces!

Teach Kids Life Skills. With everyone at home, parents have the perfect opportunity to teach their children some valuable life skills! Cooking, for example, is a great way for the family to spend quality time together. Other great skills to consider include: how to properly load a dishwasher; organize a bedroom closet, do laundry, fold sheets, do sewing repairs, grocery shop online, plant/maintain a garden, tie a necktie, change a tire. Start now, and your children could reap the benefits for a lifetime!

Make Time for Fun and Relaxation with Family. The bottom line is work still has to get done, kids still need to be fed and laundry doesn’t wash itself. However, in-between the must-dos should be some fun-dos. It’s up to you to make this happen! And while you’re at it, set the bar a little lower than you might think it should be. This is not the time to shoot for “Work at Home, Homeschooling Parent Overachiever Award.” So instead of thriving, shoot for surviving, and have some fun while you’re at it. Time to get out the games and puzzles that never get played anymore. Sitting around the table with your family playing a game of Sorry or Uno with a big bowl of popcorn is what family memories are made of. Set up obstacle courses in the backyard and host a Family Olympics. Go for a family walk or run to get some fresh air and exercise, Create a scavenger hunt to motivate the family while out blowing off some steam. Grab the sidewalk chalk and doodle some inspirational messages on your driveway and sidewalk for the neighbors to enjoy (after all, we’re in this together!). Make a homemade meal together as a family and follow it up with a family movie night. You could even start a garden together.

 

Marty Basher is the home organization expert for ModularClosets.com. He regularly offers advice on family and home organization including improved morning routines, best practices for setting up a productive homework station, and how to prevent the massive shoe pile up in the entry way.

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14 Mind-Blowing Outdoor Art Spaces You Can Set Up Today

by Lauren Hill

When it comes to innovation, parents can get pretty crafty with just a handful of items. Case in point: these killer outdoor art studios, set up by parents for their creative geniuses. Scroll down to see the ideas and get inspired to make one yourself.

Backyard Nature Weaving Frame

Mother Natured

Give your children the gift of mindfulness and relaxation when you craft a backyard nature weaving frame to express themselves. This version from Mother Natured is made from a simple construction of wood and twine, and is perfect for little hands to create works of art using leaves, flowers, grass and more.

Mounted Outdoor Easel

Made With Happy

Give the kids a constant place to be artistic outside, rain or shine. Craft a mounted outdoor easel like this one from Made with Happy and let the creative juices flow!

Art Station

Where Imagination Grows

Where Imagination Grows proves it's easy to create a colorful outdoor art space without breaking the bank. A simple wooden shelf and metal buckets in an assortment of bright hues and patterns house the supplies, and an upcycled coffee table is the perfect height for young artists. Check out the rest of this outdoor craft corner and find a list of materials you'll need to create your own here.

Use the Windows as a Creative Space

Mess for Less

Washing windows just got a lot more creative. Give your kids brushes and spray bottles, and watch them paint, clear, and paint again. Head to Mess for Less for ideas on how to get the paint/water mixture just right.

Recycled Box Art Studio

Kids Play Box

An ordinary cardboard box easily transforms into an extraordinary art studio by adding a few supplies and your artist's latest creations. Head over to Kids Play Box to see how to make your own portable gallery.

DIY Chalkboard

Amanda Hunter via Dallas Moms Blog

Color, erase, repeat. An oversized chalkboard makes a great reusable canvas, and doubles as a scoreboard for afternoon games. Head over to Dallas Moms Blog to find out how to personalize and hang one in your backyard.

Garden Art Studio

Meri Cherry

This amazing backyard studio was built by the very handy dad over at Meri Cherry. The lucky artists in residence love having their own creative hideaway. Head over to the blog for a peek inside this magical space and a look at some of their awesome projects.

Design Fort

Baddle Dabble Do

A step up from a cardboard box, this outdoor fort is an art project in itself. Babble Dabble Do used a kit to create the frame for this awesome playhouse, draped it with butcher paper and let aspiring designers go to work personalizing the space inside and out. Head over to the blog to find materials and sources.

Cardboard Easel

Pink Stripey Socks

This awesome DIY easel from Pink Stripey Socks is super easy and inexpensive to make with very few materials. Plus, it can accommodate up to three artists at once! Grab a cardboard box and check out the blog to learn to make your own.

Balcony Studio

Not-So-SAHM via Honest to Nod

Even if space is at a premium, it's still possible to set up an outdoor creative space for your little artist. Not-So-SAHM designed this craft room on the balcony of her home. Head over to Honest to Nod for a closer look at the space.

Upcycled Water Table

No Time for Flash Cards

No Time for Flash Cards took finger painting to a whole new level by using her daughter's water table as sensory tub painting project. Find all the materials you'll need to create your own colorful canvases here.

DIY Plexiglass Easel

All the Little Lights

Thinking beyond dry erase and chalkboards, All the Little Lights crafted her daughter's easel out of plexiglass. The attached paint palette is made from a plastic vegetable tray, great for separating paint colors. Easy to wash and reuse, it's the perfect outdoor canvas for artists of all ages.

Picnic Art Studio

Tinkerlab

You never know when inspiration will strike, especially when you're out exploring nature. Tinkerlab set up an impromptu art studio using just a picnic blanket and a few select supplies. Find tips for setting up a garden studio here.

Slate Painting

Doodlebuds

The mom behind Doodlebuds stumbled upon this interactive gallery wall during a visit to the Children's Museum of Manhattan. The medium of choice: water. These quick-drying framed pieces of slate make for perfect reusable canvases, and can easily be recreated in your backyard. Just remember to take a photo of each masterpiece before it dries! The exhibit served as inspiration when creating an outdoor art space for her son. Check it out here!

— Lauren Hill, Gabby Cullen & Karly Wood

 

RELATED STORIES:

10 Outdoor Art Ideas That Are Easy to Clean Up

Messy (& Fun!) Outdoor Painting Projects

 

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6 Ways to Turn Dollar Store Finds into Creative Activities

by Allison Sutcliffe

Let’s be honest, it’s hard (if not impossible) to resist the lure of the dollar bins. Don’t fight it. Give into the impulse buy guilt-free, because we’ve got easy ideas that transform items like shower curtains, pool noodles, and craft sticks into hours of play time for your wee one. Read on to find your excuse!

photo: Mom Inspired Life

1. Shower on the Creativity
Leave it to Danielle at Mom Inspired Life to come up with a creative way to use an on-the-cheap shower curtain to entertain your petite Picasso. Turning one into a canvas is where it’s at when it comes to outdoor artistry with your Little. Get Danielle’s tips and ideas here to make the most of your masterpiece.

photo: Hands on as We Grow

2. Let It Grow
Couple your coffee filter stash with a four pack of food coloring from the dollar bins, and set your aspiring artist off to create gorgeous blooms. Jamie at Hands On As We Grow can give you the run down on turning food coloring into liquid watercolors your mini Monet can use any time he thinks you need a colorful bouquet or a kid-made centerpiece for your dinner table. It’s that easy!

photo: Little Bins for Little Hands

3. Make Cool Discoveries
Sure those dollar store dinos work great in the sandbox. But we heart this creative twist on everyday play that adds a dash of STEM learning and countless hours to your Little’s dinosaur experience. Find out how to create your own excavation site using simple supplies you can find on the cheap from Sarah at Little Bins for Little Hands. Can you dig it?

photo: Developing the Whole Child

4. Overcome Obstacles
You’ve got pool noodles a-plenty in your summer fun time stash. And adding to your collection is so easy (and cheap!) this time of year. So we’re all about following the lead of Developing the Whole Child and using spares to create an outdoor obstacle course for your sweet tot to navigate. Find out how to set one up here.

photo: The Seasoned Mom

5. Take Aim
Summer time games on the cheap can be hard to come by (have you checked the price on water balloons lately?). But Blair at The Seasoned Mom is all about creating lasting memories without a big price tag. Check out her supply list for this simple sponge dart game before you hit the dollar store. Then send your crew out for a little front porch competition when you return.

photo: Happy Hooligans

6. Craft Stick People
Put the yarn and fabric scraps cluttering your craft room to good use making stick figures. We’re crushing on their simplicity almost as much as their cuteness factor. And your kiddo will love designing entire families of these folks. Discover the secret to creating your own adorable collection from Jackie at Happy Hooligans. 

Which dollar-store-fueled activity piques your interest? Tell us about it in a comment.

— Allison Sutcliffe

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